Many people have observed this and I think it’s basic fact that often it is much easier to write a bad review for a movie than it is a good one. In my case if a movie is awful, it is incredibly easy to write something negative and livid because sometimes the bad movies can inspire more creativity. When it comes to writing about a good movie, it’s almost impossible because the emotions just swell up and basically can’t translate well in to the proper words. That’s what it was like writing a review for “A Short Film about Letting Go.” Director J. Erik Reese’s film is so effective, so raw, and so beautiful, it’s impossible to describe how much I enjoyed it.
At only eleven minutes, most of the film is basically based around performances and lush environs that serve as an element to depict the tortured and scattered emotions surrounding these characters. Following various characters, Reese just steps back and films as he allows these actors to deliver improvised performances where they basically confront the loved one in their lives and the results are remarkable as the impromptu dialogue is staged in a way where it feels like a stage play acting as a centerpiece for the skills presented here. All of the performances are quite stellar, but Mark Eric Ridley basically steals the show as the tormented father struggling to come to terms with the relationship with his distant son.
The confrontation that ensues is quite remarkable and makes the film worth watching completely. Which is not to say everything else isn’t of considerable value as Reese’s direction matched with Joshua Nitschke’s cinematography makes this an absolutely stunning production with some incredible photography while Reese injects life in to what could have been a self indulgent project. Reese definitely takes a risk allowing his cast to branch off from the script, but it’s worth it because the results of their talent are as clear as day on screen. It’s quite a sight to behold at times. With a great cast and top notch direction “A Short Film About Letting Go” is a great experimental short film that centers on and perfectly captures the inner workings of human relationships and raw emotions. Definitely look out for it once it hits festivals.